Court Scams

More than a dozen states, including Washington, have issued public warnings about scams involving false claims from court officials or law enforcement officers. Please be advised about the following court-related scams and take appropriate precautions to protect yourself from identity and financial threats.

Washington court personnel may contact you by phone, but they will never ask you to provide your personal information such as social security number or bank or credit card information.

Recent Increase in Jury Duty Scams Reported in Washington

Washington courts and justice system members are reporting a recent and significant increase in jury scam calls, emails and mailings targeting state residents. Scammers can be very convincing, repeating your name, address, Social Security numbers and other information that makes them seem legitimate. Please tell your family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors that courts, law enforcement and government agencies do not initiate calls about missing jury service and warrants, and will never ask for payment or financial information over the phone.

Scams In the News

• Court fine scams hit Washington residents and beyond (March 1, 2024)
  Oregon Judicial Department
• Clark County warns residents of jury duty scam (February 17, 2024)
  The Columbian via Longview Daily News
• BBB Employee Who Fell Victim to Jury Duty Scam: 'The Humiliation Is Awful"
  KOMO News
• Jury Duty Threats A Scam To Steal Money
  The Columbian"
• The Jury Is In: It's A Scam Targeting Pierce County Residents
  News Tribune

Resources

• Federal Bureau of Investigation
  Detailed information on how to protect yourself from cyber scams.